Whale Watching in Northern Norway: RIB Adventure

No. Humpback whales and orcas are wild animals, so their location and behaviour change from day to day. Your captain actively searches the fjords throughout the trip based on conditions and recent activity, but no responsible whale watching operator can guarantee a sighting.

Whether the whales appear or not, you'll spend approximately three and a half hours exploring the Arctic fjords they use during the winter feeding season.

Humpback whales and orcas are both present in the area during the whale watching season, although exactly what you'll encounter depends on where the animals are feeding and how they're behaving that day.

Every trip is different, and sightings can never be guaranteed.

This RIB tour operates from October to early February, around the period when whales can be present in the fjords surrounding Alta.

Because whale movements are driven by feeding and natural conditions rather than a fixed calendar, the exact operating season can vary slightly from year to year.

Your crew maintains a safe and responsible distance and doesn't chase or crowd the animals.

Whales are free to move wherever they choose, so occasionally an animal may decide to approach the RIB itself. When that happens, the crew lets the whale determine the distance rather than attempting to force a closer encounter.

A RIB offers a very different experience from whale watching aboard a larger vessel. You're seated much closer to the surface of the water, the group is limited to 4–12 guests, and the smaller boat can move efficiently when the captain spots activity elsewhere in the fjord.

The trade-off is that a RIB is more exposed to the Arctic weather and sea conditions than an enclosed sightseeing vessel.

Sea conditions vary from day to day, and travelling in a small open RIB can feel more active than being aboard a larger vessel.

Your crew monitors the conditions and adjusts the route or operation when necessary. Guests should be comfortable travelling on open winter water.

The experience is rated Easy. There's no strenuous physical activity involved, but you'll be travelling aboard an open RIB in Arctic winter conditions for an extended period.

The main requirement is being comfortable on the water and dressing appropriately for the cold.

We provide a lifejacket, thermal suit, gloves, glasses and winter boots for the experience.

You should still arrive wearing warm clothing underneath the provided equipment. Layers suitable for winter conditions in Northern Norway are recommended because the RIB is open to the elements.

Yes, provided they meet the age and height requirements. Children must be at least 8 years old and 120 cm tall to participate.

A child rate of NOK 2,643 applies for children up to 12 years old.

Each tour accommodates between 4 and 12 guests.

The small group size is one of the main differences between this experience and whale watching from a larger sightseeing vessel.

The complete experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including the transfer, preparation and time spent exploring the fjords by RIB.

Actual conditions and whale activity can influence how the experience unfolds on the day.

The standard meeting point is Canyon Hotel, Markedsgata 6, 9510 Alta. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure.

Transfer to the water is included. Other pickup locations can also be arranged for an additional fee.

Specialist outer equipment is included, including a thermal suit, gloves and winter boots.

However, you should still arrive wearing your own warm layers underneath, as you'll be travelling on open Arctic water during the winter.

Yes. Warm beverages and snacks are included during the experience.

Weather and sea conditions can affect both the route and whether the tour can operate as planned. Your crew monitors conditions and makes adjustments when necessary, with safety taking priority.

For bookings of up to 9 guests, cancellations made 10 or more days before departure receive a full refund. Cancellations made 4–9 days before departure receive a 50% refund, while cancellations within 4 days of departure are non-refundable.

Groups of 10 or more follow a separate cancellation schedule outlined in the Terms and Conditions.

Tipping isn't customary or expected in Norway. If you've particularly enjoyed your experience and would like to tip your guide, you're welcome to do so, but it's entirely optional.

Payment is made by card when booking. Groups of 10 or more can arrange payment by invoice, which is due within 10 days of booking.